Futuristic Minivan Options

Minivans have been popular since the 1980s due to its flexible cargo space, fuel efficiency, car-like handling and kid-friendly sliding doors. Today, manufacturers have stayed in tune with futuristic designs and modern technology to keep these vehicles front and center with American families.

Key players in the minivan market include Honda Odyssey, Dodge Grand Caravan, Nissan Quest, Chrysler Town & Country, Mazda5 and Toyota Sienna. Each features its own set of futuristic options for the next generation.

Designed for the Next Generation

Honda’s Odyssey is not the typical stodgy minivan on wheels. It has a cutting-edge design with wide-screen video monitors. Its Z-window line adds flair while its rear suspension offers a smooth ride.

Most of the Odysseys are equipped with dual-wide screen monitors with HDMI, blind spot monitors, power tailgates and power sliding doors. The Stow n’ Go seats, large sliding consoles and Blu-ray disc players are always a hit with buyers.

The Toyota Sienna features its own set of calling cards with bar loungers in the rear, widescreen video and its Entune system. Passengers can access mobile apps like Pandora Internet radio, Bing and MovieTickets.com. Nissan’s Quest is totally upscale with leather-lined interiors while being ideal for taking the kids to Disney World.

2001: A Space Odyssey

The Ford Airstream features an interior inspired by the movie “2001: A Space Odyssey.” Under its sleek exterior is a plug-in hydrogen fuel-cell power. Ford’s Transit Connect van features GPS navigation, panoramic roof, sliding doors and seating for up to seven passengers. Its slick Euro-design has attracted many age groups.

The Toyota minivan of 2015 looks straight out of “Star Wars.” It’s a hip hybrid inspired in design from a Japanese bullet train and futuristic Tokyo River boat. With both a futuristic interior and exterior, this wagon has true swagger. It has plenty of transparent door surfaces and one motion windscreen integrated in a glass roof for all aboard to enjoy a scenic view.

It even has a third row of seats that swivel. Curious kids will have a fun time with these new features. The new Toyota minivan is where the future quickly becomes the present.

The Future of the Minivan

Although predicting the future is risky, minivans are sure to maintain their popularity with consumers. It’s a market segment that is offering many futuristic design options like crash-avoidance systems, turbocharged engines, sophisticated entertainment systems and Internet connectivity.

Other advanced designs include intense amounts of aluminum to lower fuel costs, grille shutters and precise bodies to enhance aerodynamics. All of these features will rival luxury cars. The minivan’s efficiency and space will keep it a formidable contender in the car market for years to come. It’s even poised to match up with the popularity of crossovers.